Robyn McGowan

Robyn Arlene McGowan, a longtime resident of Ashley, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2026.

Born November 4, 1956, Robyn was the daughter of the late William and Arlene (Ruddy) McGowan. She was a graduate of Hanover Area High School and studied Hotel and Restaurant Management at Luzerne County Community College. Robyn was a hard worker throughout her life, with much of her career spent in restaurants and hospitality.

Robyn was strong-willed and headstrong, with a sense of humor and a generous heart. She loved shopping, whether she was hunting for a bargain, picking out a little surprise for someone she loved, or spending the day shopping with her sisters. She showed her love through the little things she did for the people she cared about. Even her forty-something-year-old kids could still count on Mom to fill their Christmas stockings.

Robyn was happiest at home, where she enjoyed her favorite television shows, especially America’s Got Talent and crime shows, and the Stephanie Plum book series. She loved chocolate and was often known to pass on dinner in favor of dessert. She took pride in supporting her children and grandson and could always be counted on to show up for the events and activities that mattered to them.

Her greatest joy in life was her grandson, William, who knew her as Nanny.

Robyn is survived by her daughter, Jessica Swingle and her husband, Brian, of Shickshinny; her son, William Jayne and his wife, Holly, of Shavertown; her grandson, William; and her sisters, Paula Kaschenbach and Nancy McGowan. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother-in-law, Stephen Kaschenbach.

Robyn’s family is grateful to the staff of Birchwood Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center and Serenity Hospice Care for the care and compassion they provided during her final days.

A private chapel service will be held for the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association.

Condolences may be sent to kniffenfuneralhome.com